France

The Ultimate Guide to Studying in France in 2026

Browse all master programmes in France

Study in France

Bonjour, mon ami! Welcome to the rich, cultural landscape of France. Find yourself dazzled by the cuisine, the dancing, the art, and the music – all while you learn the French language. Thousands of people take their holiday in France every year to enjoy the wine and the relaxed lifestyle, if only for a short period of time. But, why not extend that holiday, and learn something while you’re at it?

If you're looking to study at a university in France, you will find numerous study degrees, combining rigorous academics with the allure of its rich cultural heritage. These days, universities and colleges in France are starting to offer plenty of English-taught degree options for Master’s and Bachelor’s students all over the world. From its long history in science, literature, art, and history, France has plenty of exciting options for international students. But French education is also about innovation and you are going to find many English-taught degrees related to Business, Science and Tech as well. 

So, when you’re dreaming of walking dreamily around the The River Seine, or making your home in the Château de Versailles, then why not study abroad in France?

Why Study in France?

1. Very affordable tuition fees

If you come from the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), you won't pay more than 800 EUR per academic year; this applies to degrees at all levels (Bachelor's, Master's, PhD).

In some cases, non-EU/EEA students enjoy the same benefits, but in others they do pay higher tuition. Even so, studying in France is less expensive than in other countries, such as the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, etc.

2. The number of English-taught degrees is growing

To attract more international students, both public and private universities in France have been increasing the number of English-taught study programmes in their academic offer.

There are over 1,500 courses taught in the English language, and the number is growing every year.

3. Excellent opportunities to learn or improve your French

Although English remains the primary international language in many sectors, you shouldn't overlook French. It is the third most common business language and the official language in over 30 countries worldwide.

Remember that people who speak at least two foreign languages have better chances to get higher salaries or apply for positions at large multinational corporations and institutions.

French is also famously known as "the language of love" (la langue de l'amour), and we must admit, there's something quite special about the words, the sounds, the accents, and how everything blends together beautifully.

4. France is a hub for research and innovation

Many French higher education institutions invest a lot of resources in their research facilities and staff. If you see yourself spending long hours in laboratories, conducting experiments, and working on humanity's next breakthrough, France is the place to go.

Over 64 Nobel Laureates and 15 Fields Medals highlight the importance that France places on research and progress.

5. Visit famous tourist attractions

From human-made wonders to natural beauties, there's so much to see in the Hexagon (popular nickname for France).

You can enjoy the French Riviera, explore the Prehistoric Cave Paintings in Lascaux, take a photo from the top of the Eiffel Tower, and quench your thirst for history at the Louvre Museum — these and many other attractions have transformed France into one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Which universities to attend in France?

All over France, there are plenty of well-established and reputable international universities to choose from. Depending on what you study, you may be interested in going to one of the grande écoles or universities designed specifically for your subject.

Here is a list of higher education institutions we recommend:

What is it like to study in France?

French universities and institutions are known for having small classroom sizes. This means that, as a student, you don’t need to feel intimidated to ask questions or participate in a discussion. Plus, your instructors will be able to give you extra, individual assistance if you need it.

While you attend university in France, you’ll also be able to enjoy a thriving social life outside of your classes. With plenty of museums to visit and wonderful restaurants to try, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in plenty of French culture. while also getting your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.

What to study in France?

When you study in France, you can find schools, universities, and institutions that are specifically devoted to the subject you’re most interested in. And because France has always been able to produce some of the greatest minds in Business, Economics, Science, and Art, you can be sure that you’ll join the ranks of other experts in your field.

Here are some subjects you might enjoy studying in France:

Where to study in France?

Everyone knows Paris – the big metropolitan city with the Eiffel Tower. But there are other charming cities all over the country, where international students can have a great time, drink great wine, and meet new people.

How to apply

Each university in France has its own system on their website that allows future students to apply for and enrol in their Bachelor’s or Master’s degree programmes. So, once you select the university of your choice, you can go through their application and submit your materials there.

Here are some documents you might need to include in your university application:

  • A scan of your diploma (high school or Bachelor’s degree)
  • A transcript/record of your previous courses
  • A scan of your passport and/or birth certificate
  • Your CV
  • Testing scores
  • Evidence of scholarship or funding
  • Letters of recommendation (between 2-3)
  • Portfolio and/or writing samples

Helpful ways to make sure you qualify for a French university

Take Preparation Courses

These kinds of courses enable degree-seeking students to get an extra educational boost just before they start their Master’s degree or other post-graduate degree programmes. Try a pre-M.B.A., pre-Law, or pre-Medicine programme, as well as any other foundation or preparation courses that will allow you to study in the degree programme of your choice.

Improve your English through an English-language prep course

If you’re attending a degree programme in France you will need to prove that your language skills are good enough to participate in the classes and understand the lectures; some schools will require French, while others will require strong English skills. These courses will also prepare you for any of the English-language tests that universities require.

English-language tests

To apply to study in France, you’ll need to provide proof you have a diploma for your English proficiency.

The certificates generally accepted by the universities in France are:

Still, you should always check your university’s website, just to be sure what the exact requirements are.

Living in France

In France, university housing is often limited and may not offer much in the way of privacy. Many international students choose private studios or shared residences in cities like Paris, Lyon, or Toulouse.

With University Living, you can take a full look inside each property using 360° virtual tours, making it easier to choose the right fit before you even land.

Let's take a closer look at tuition and living expenses in France:

Tuition fees for universities in France

In France, they have both public and private universities and different tuition fees for each. Tuition fees also change based on your nationality, what you choose to study and what your education level will be.

Public universities

  • Bachelor’s students: 170 EUR/year (Engineering and Medicine degree can cost between 500–700 EUR/year)
  • Master’s students: 260 EUR/year
  • PhD students: 396 EUR/year

Keep in mind that the tuition fees listed above usually only apply to EU/EEA students. Non-EU/EEA citizens can expect to pay higher tuition.

Private universities

  • Grande écoles: 500–10,000 EUR/year regardless of the degree type

  • Private universities: 1,500–20,000 EUR/year regardless of the degree type
  • Business schools: 5,000–30,000 EUR/year regardless of the degree type

If you're worried about tuition fees, have a look at these cheap universities in France.

Living costs in France

Depending on whether you find yourself in a big city or not, the cost of living in France can be quite different. However, compared to the rest of Europe, France can be quite pricey. In general you should prepare about 700–1,200 EUR/month to cover your student living costs. In more expensive cities, like Paris, you'll need around 1,200–1,800 EUR/month.

Here is a breakdown of the costs to expect in France:

  • Rent (student residence halls vs private rent): 200–400 vs 400–700 EUR/month
  • Utilities: 150–200 EUR
  • Three-course meal for 2 people at a mid-range restaurant: 50 EUR
  • Milk: 0.98 EUR
  • Loaf of bread: 1.41 EUR
  • Monthly transportation pass (metro, bus, train): 56 EUR
  • Cappuccino: 2.82 EUR

About France

Nowadays, universities in France offer plenty of English-taught degree options for students worldwide. From its long history in science, literature, art, and history, France has plenty of exciting options for international students.

Interesting facts about France
  • France is the most visited country in the world. In 2012, they welcomed over 83 million tourists.
  • People in France are prohibited from naming their pigs Napoleon.
  • Louis XIX was king of France for 20 minutes.
  • The people who invented the first digital calculator, hot air balloon, parachute, Braille, margarine, and the first public interactive computer were all French.
  • In certain cases, you are legally allowed to marry a dead person.

Universities, colleges and schools in France

Aix-en-Provence

Amiens

Angers

Anglet

Arcueil

Avignon

Bidart

Bordeaux

Boulogne-Billancourt

Brest

Bruz

Caen

Cannes

Cergy

Cergy-Pontoise

Chambéry

Clermont-Ferrand

Créteil

Dijon

Douai

Fontainebleau

Gif-sur-Yvette

Gradignan

Grenoble

Jouy-en-Josas

La Rochelle

Le Havre

Le Mans

Lille

Lyon

Marseille

Metz

Montpellier

Nancy

Nantes

Nevers

Nice

Orléans

Palaiseau

Paris

Paris La Défense

Pau

Perpignan

Poitiers

Puteaux

Reims

Rennes

Rouen

Saint-Alban

Saint-Étienne

Sophia Antipolis

Strasbourg

Sèvres

Toulouges

Toulouse

Tours

Troyes

Valence

Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy

Écully

Interested in scholarships for France? Check out our scholarship search page.

How to Apply to a Master's in France

If you've decided to study a Master's degree at a university in France, you will have to gather the right documents to prove that you fit the university requirements. Provide complete personal information, previous qualifications, financial information, and a personal statement.

What documents do I need to provide to apply in France?

The documents and forms you will have to complete and upload are:

  • A pre-registration certificate provided by the university;
  • The Campus France authorization;
  • Your Passport or ID card;
  • Some ID/passport type photos;
  • Copies of graduation diplomas and their French translation;
  • A registration fee;
  • Social security fees;
  • A civil liability certificate;
  • A copy of your European health insurance card (only if you're an EU citizen, obviously);
  • CV;
  • A motivation letter;
  • English (or French) language certificate;
  • Your transcript of records, with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (or equivalent);
  • Copies of diplomas (if not available, a certificate stating that you graduated);
  • Proof that you can fund your stay in France (with a minimum of 800 EUR/month).

Prove your language skills

People speak French in France. Yes, we know, we just blew your mind! Nonetheless, they do, and, if you want to speak it with them, as well, you should prepare a proficiency certificate, like DELF, DALF, or TCF.

If you don't really care about the idea of studying in French, then, fortunately, you can pick an English degree. Still, you will have to present an English proficiency diploma. This one can be:

  • TOEIC
  • TOEFL
  • IELTS

Application deadlines for France

In France, you can apply in two batches.

First, if you want to apply for the fall admission, then be sure you mark the 1st of February and the 1st of April in you calendar. And, sometimes, know that this date can be extended if there are still some available spaces.

If the cold bothers you, then check out the spring admission session, which ends on the 15th of September. And, of course, if there are still available spaces, it can be prolonged.

Interesting programmes for you

Find Master's Degrees in France

What subject to study in France?

Discover other countries

Netherlands
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a very popular study destination. Internationals choose this beautiful country because Dutch universities are some of the best in Europe, the living standards are high, foreigners are always welcome, and you get to live in one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. The Netherlands is also renowned for innovative technologies and engineering solutions, which is reflected in the wide range of Engineering degrees offered by universities. English is spoken by around 90% of Dutch citizens, so forget about language barriers. Also, bike lanes and the “cycling culture” will help you to stay fit and healthy, and there are diverse job opportunities and internships for international students.
Finland
Finland
Finland is an excellent choice for all internationals and especially for EU/EEA students who can study at local public universities for free. The beautiful Nordic country has one of the best education systems in the world and ranks among the safest and happiest nations in the world. You can also choose from over 400 English-taught programmes. In your spare time, you can explore the breathtaking Finnish nature and landscapes, as well as the numerous lakes that give the country the nickname ‘The Land of a Thousand Lakes.’ From here, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries like Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, or Estonia.
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland is among the top countries in the world in terms of quality of life, peace, safety, and development. It represents an appealing blend of beautiful landscapes, English-speaking environments, and a strong, welcoming, and rich culture — of which the Irish people are very proud. International students also enjoy the full support of Irish universities, which hire and train staff that are able to help with accommodation, studies, visa details, or any other challenge.
Norway
Norway
Norway is a paradise for anyone who wants to study abroad for free. Public universities don’t charge any tuition fees. This policy applies to all international students, regardless of their nationality. The academic standard is very high, and professors are easy to approach, always willing to go the extra mile for their students. Additionally, classes are organised in small groups, which further improves learning and cooperation. You can choose from a wide range of English-taught programmes, and you don’t need to worry about language barriers outside of classes either, because most Norwegians speak English as a second language. Internationals should find it easy to adapt to Norway’s society, which is based on equality and fair opportunities — reflected both in the legal system and in people’s behaviour.
Greece
Greece
Greece is the cradle of European civilization and the birthplace of philosophy. Greek universities and colleges have a long history in academics, attracting international students from all over the world. Classes are not typically formal, so you can expect open discussions between students and professors, in line with the classical philosophical debate tradition. EU/EEA students don’t pay any tuition at public universities, while non-EU/EEA citizens pay low fees. In Greece, you’ll also enjoy the well-known local hospitality and the wonderful Mediterranean climate. There are many landmarks and monuments waiting to be explored, including the Acropolis, Delphi, the Parthenon, and many others.
Sweden
Sweden
Sweden is a very ambitious, eco-friendly, and visionary country. For example, by 2040, it aims to produce all its energy from renewable sources. Universities play an important role in achieving development goals, thanks to their world-class research facilities. If you’re from the EU/EEA, you can study at public universities for free. As a student, you will discover and easily adopt the three main values of Swedish society: freedom, equality, and sustainability. These values are reflected in every aspect of the local society, and you’ll quickly learn to appreciate them. Language barriers are also almost non-existent since around 80% of Swedes speak English.
Switzerland
Switzerland
Switzerland has one of the most advanced free-market economies, which is reflected in the high living standards and the satisfaction of people living here. In terms of higher education, Swiss universities are constantly ranked among the best in Europe, and they shine in areas like Business, Tourism, Culinary Arts, and Engineering. When compared to Western universities, tuition fees in Switzerland are affordable, and all studies — especially PhD programmes — are world-class. You’ll have the opportunity to develop in a multilingual environment and try learning international languages like German, French, or Italian. If you settle down here, the unemployment rates are low, and salaries are well above the European average.
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Universities in the UK are some of the most highly regarded in the world, and for good reasons. Some of the world's most highly regarded research takes place in British universities, which are regularly featured in international rankings. While studying in the UK, you will be able to develop in a highly multicultural environment with high chances of pursuing lucrative careers after graduation. The teaching in the UK is designed to encourage new idea generation, encouraging individual research and group cooperation, through class discussions and creative assignments.
Canada
Canada
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations in the world due to its high focus on the quality of its universities and its emphasis on attracting international students who can later immigrate. Canadians are very welcoming to international students and they invest a lot into making sure students are safe, treated fairly, and enjoy their stay in the country. Study in one of the strongest economies in the world while enjoying a high living standard and a flexible study environment. Classes have smaller student groups ensuring everyone gets the attention they need, and encouraging group assignments and debates.
United States
United States
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.
Australia
Australia
By studying in Australia you will take advantage of the great student environment both inside and outside classrooms. In addition to some of the best business and engineering schools in the world, you will be able to explore a greatly developed country that still retains its wild side with its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and the Great Outback, with over 500 national parks. Many Australian universities provide internships and work placements, preparing students early on for the job market.
View all countries

Wishlist

Go to your profile page to get personalised recommendations!